Ronald W. (Ronnie) Gentry, age 66, of Hickory, North Carolina, went home to be with his Lord on Sunday, March 17, 2013 at his residence. He was born January 27, 1947 in Washington County, Va. to the late Raymond Ralph Gentry and Velma Hawkins Gentry. In addition to his parents, Ronnie was preceded in death by his mother-in-law Kathleen Burgess, sister-in-law Ingrid McComas; brother-in-law, Curtis Sluder, and uncles: Richard Hawkins, Wilton Hawkins and Newton Hawkins.

Ronnie graduated from Johnson County High School in 1965. Following high school, he attended college in Catawba County. He retired from General Electric, following 27 years of service. Ronnie always enjoyed working and after his retirement, he began a 17-year employment with Foothills Jewelry and Loans. He enjoyed the outdoors and was a member of Catawba County Wildlife Club. Ronnie was a United States Navy veteran and was a member of St John Methodist Church.

The family will receive friends Wednesday March 20, 2013 from 2-3:30 p.m. at St Johns Methodist Church with funeral service to follow at 3:30 p.m. with Pastor Tom Prater to officiate. Pallbearers will be Terry Reid, Van Neely, Eric Taylor, Rick Bebber, Philip Zuzolo, Charles Threewitt and George Waldrop. Graveside service and interment with Military Honors will follow from Acre Field Cemetery and will be accorded by Johnson County Honor Guard.